In a major shake-up for India’s white-ball campaign, explosive wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the news on Wednesday, citing a precautionary measure due to a niggling injury concern ahead of the crucial white-ball engagements.
Pant, who has been in scintillating form across formats, showcased his prowess in the recent T20I series against the same opponents, smashing a quickfire half-century. However, medical evaluations post the T20Is revealed a minor strain that necessitated his withdrawal to avoid any risk of aggravation. This development comes at a time when India is gearing up for a packed schedule, including the Champions Trophy preparations.
Stepping into Pant’s boots is the promising young talent Dhruv Jurel, who earns his maiden call-up to the senior ODI squad. The 23-year-old from Uttar Pradesh has been turning heads in domestic cricket and IPL, particularly with his composed glovework and ability to accelerate the scoring rate. Jurel’s inclusion adds fresh energy to the team, with selectors banking on his potential to fill the void left by Pant.
Head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Rohit Sharma will now have to recalibrate strategies around Jurel’s skill set. While Pant’s absence is a blow to India’s middle-order firepower, it opens doors for emerging stars to stake their claim. The series opener is set for January 18 in Hyderabad, promising high-octane cricket as India aims to extend their dominance at home.
Fans have taken to social media, expressing disappointment over Pant’s exclusion but excitement for Jurel’s debut. As the squad finalizes preparations, all eyes are on how the young keeper performs under pressure against a resilient New Zealand side.